FROM the Hitler Youth to Christ’s man on Earth via a stint as head of the Inquisition, it’s been some journey for Joe Ratzinger.

Apparently everyone is shocked that Benedict XVI decided to hand over the keys of the kingdom – and the Popemobile.

But why is anyone surprised that a frail old man feels he is too old to run a State and represent a God when he’s 85 years old?

As far as we know there’s no scandal. But then again, was there ever a time in Vatican history when there wasn’t one?

People who never met him are saying he was a good Pope who did a lot for the Church. The Tanaiste yesterday praised Benedict XVI, but if he’s such a good guy why is our embassy to the Vatican closed? In truth, this country’s relationship with the Vatican has never been worse and the blame lies with Rome.

He didn’t like the Taoiseach pointing out that the Vatican failed to take action against their legion of paedo priests.

At 78, Benedict XVI was one of the oldest popes in history when he was elected in 2005. Just when the Church desperately needed change it got more of the same with extra toppings of intolerance.

In fairness he didn’t discriminate, he managed to offend Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Protestants and gay people in equal measure. We should also remember he was head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and was known as “God’s Rottweiler”.

In this capacity in 2001, he informed every bishop that reporting of the rape and torture of children by priests was a mortal sin.

To share evidence with the legal authorities of any state, bar the Vatican, was a crime against God punishable by “excommunication”.

On the other hand he is a whizz at the old theology and can hold his own in five languages.

How will he be remembered? Probably as the Pope who defended and protected the Church.

If only he’d shown the same compassion for innocent children he might have been a great Pope.